Agents, Interactions & Complexity

This PhD studentship aims at exploring advanced materials and novel nanopatterning techniques to develop the next generation of photoelectric memories. Solution-processed organic, inorganic and hybrid materials will be explored on photodiode and/or photocapacitor arrays following the principles of neuromorphic engineering. Devices that emulate biological synapses in the human visual system, capable of detecting (in analogy to the retina in the eye) and memorising or even processing images (like the visual cortex in the brain), will be developed. The PhD student will have the opportunity to join a multi-disciplinary team and to be trained and work in the world-class facilities of the Zepler Institute for Photonics and Nanoelectronics.

Supervision:

• Dr Dimitra Georgiadou – expert in Device Physics

• Prof Antonios Kanaras – expert in Solid-state Chemistry.

• Prof Themis Prodromakis – expert in AI Hardware.

This project is funded through the UKRI MINDS Centre for Doctoral Training (www.mindscdt.ai). This is one of 16 PhD training centres in the UK with a unique focus on advancing AI techniques in the context of real-world engineered systems with a remit that spans novel hardware for AI, AI and machine learning, pervasive systems and IoT, and human-AI collaboration. We provide enhanced cross-disciplinary training in electronics and AI, entrepreneurship, responsible research and innovation, communication strategies, outreach and impact development as part of an integrated 4-year iPhD programme.

The MINDS CDT is based in a dedicated laboratory on Highfield Campus at the University of Southampton. The lab provides a supportive environment for individual research, ideas sharing and collaboration, and the wider campus provides access to substantial high-performance computing (including dedicated GPU servers), maker and cleanroom facilities. You will take part in our annual, student-designed innovation camps, be able to work with industry and government partners through our internship scheme and be able to take part in exchanges with international university partners.

Funding: full tuition for EU/UK Students plus, for UK and EU students resident in the UK for previous 3 years, an enhanced stipend of £18,285, tax-free per annum for 4 years. years.

Entry Requirements

A very good undergraduate degree (at least a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent).

Closing date: no later than 5 June 2020 for entry in October 2020.

How To Apply

Applications should be made online, select the academic session 2020-21 “PhD MINDS” as the programme. Enter Hardware for optics-based memories sensing under the Topic or Field of Research.